[Smokeybear]

Hi all, I am looking to get a Goldwing and I'd like some advice from the folks on this board. I've ridden bikes for many years, I started out riding dirt bikes when I was 5. I graduated to street bikes when I turned 16 and my dad bought me a Yamaha special 400. When a friend totaled it I bought a 700 Virago and my dad had a 1200 Venture. I rode his bike a few times and loved the feel of the big cushy thing. I now have an 06 V-Star. I bought it thinking my wife would never throw a leg across it after scaring her for life with the Virago I had years ago. Well she surprised me by asking to go for a ride. She fell in love with riding but not with the little Pillion pad that is supposed to be for her. So now I'm in the market for a bigger bike. I've always like the look of a Goldwing and I've heard so many people say that it is the only way to go for a touring bike. So, with that in mind what say you? What should I look for, I'm selling the Yamaha and using the funds towards the Goldwing. I'm guessing the budget will be somewhere south of $7000. Thanks in advance.

 

[Smokeybear]

Size and weight shouldn't be a problem, I'm 6'4" 240 and fairly fit. I've been checking out the 1500's and I'm loving what I see. I have to admit, though, my V-Star starts to hurt me after about 45 minutes to an hour. I'd be nice to be able to ride longer distances with comfort.

 

[Smokeybear]

Well, after putting up a craigslist ad for my bike, I got the first bite today. A gentleman about 3 hours away contacted me and said he had a 91 that has been meticulously maintained, had all the records and was willing to trade even. He sent me this picture. If I trade even, this will save me quite a bit of saved up cash and IF the bike is as maintained as he says, do you guys think it's a good deal. I've read a little about the wings on this board and other places that say the 96 and later had a problem with the alternators, that they switched to China made alts and that that was giving some people problems??? Anyway, I'm attaching pics of both bikes to get your valued input. Thanks again.
My 06

The wing

 

[Smokeybear]

How about a 1998 Valkyrie?

If your gonna by a 1500... get one with 6, count em... 6, 32mm carburetors and enough power to entirely rock your world!

Just sayin!

T

It's not about the power, my 1100 has plenty. It's the comfort we're after. the little pillion does nothing for my wife's fanny.

 

[Smokeybear]

Looking at the picture it looks like it has reverse on it. He also has aftermarket chrome side panels anda tall windscreen installed. You might ask if he has the original color side panels to go with it. You didn't say what the mileage or price he is asking.

Mileage is right at 100k he says. Even trade. Blue book on his looks like $4200 +/- if it's the Interstate. Mine is 4500+/-

 

[Smokeybear]

Well, after three long months of looking for just the right one I think I found it. It's about 5 hours away but if the description and pictures are anywhere near correct, I think it's a fair trade. It's a little older, a 93 Aspencade but it only has 26k on it. One owner and has been meticulously maintained the bike. All the records come with it and has a host of new items like timing belts, battery, alt, and tires. All the usual's have been done oil, filters, etc. A few shiney parts have been added and a tall windshield with the vent. Even trade for my Vstar and he'll pay the transfer fees. I go pick it up Sunday.




Sorry about the long time before the update but I'm the kind of guy that researches something to death before plopping down money. Sometimes it works great, sometimes I miss a good deal. What are your opinions guys?

 

[Smokeybear]

Thanks to all for the words of encouragement and support, I'll definitely be taking some first ride pics this weekend and boring you all to death with them and other inane details of a person with a new toy.

 

[Smokeybear]

Well, I got her home and took her for a ride last night. It was probably not a good idea as the weather was questionable but I did it anyway...WOW I am so impressed with this bike. I knew after the test ride when trading I was going to love it but riding in the rain last night two up with my wife was awesome. The bike handles like a dream and is so much more comfortable for me and her. We rode for about an hour and a half and neither of us were ready to quit but I had been on the road since 4 yesterday morning to go get it that I decided it was best to get home and get some rest. This morning I went out, wiped off the bike and went out again. SOOO nice! I'll get some pictures up soon, I took so many the batteries in my camera died and it won't upload. LOL.